Ward 120 Carbon Aero Wheels have been methodically developed through extensive aero testing of each of the following factors separately, to provide the best performing wheels possible for the price and intended use:
- Rim depth
- Rim width
- Rim shape
- Spoke type
- Spoke count
- Hub
Ward 120 carbon aero wheels utilise a full carbon rim which measures a whopping 120, yes 120 mm deep! This ultra deep rim provides simply unbelievable aerodynamics, comparible to many solid aero disc wheels! Furthermore, it exhibits increased lateral stiffness and reduced vertical stiffness (improved comfort) thanks to the short, wide bracing angle spokes.
Wider rim width allows the aerodynamically efficient use of wider faster rolling tyres. This yields benefits such as: decreased rolling resistance; improved comfort; and increased grip. The rim section geometry of this wheel perfectly suits the lowest rolling resistance clincher tyres available on the market.
This wheel yields the highest overall performance level of any spoked rear wheel through optimising the balance of aerodynamic drag, rolling resistance, stiffness, and handling, for a truly exceptional spoked rear wheel.
Our own in-house testing shows that this 120 mm carbon deep rim is the fastest non full disc rear wheel we have ever tested by far! Unbelievably destroying 60 - 88 mm rear wheels. It's performance comes close to the best full disc rear wheels costing 3-4x the price, on an outdoor velodrome! This means it theoretically matches or even beats the more budget friendly full disc rear TT wheels. Benefits to this wheel are that it is lighter and laterally stiffer than these other race wheels.
Note: It is important to use the recommended tyres in conjunction with this wheel for optimum performance.
Full carbon clincher rim constructed from strong premium grade carbon fibre, which is better than the industry standard.
Specificly developed braking surface improves braking power and reduces overheating issues associated with full carbon rim brake rims. Rim is rated to maximum inflation pressure of 120 psi for indoor velodrome use, but generally around 90 psi is sufficient for road surfaces.
Lightweight, low profile sealed bearing hub with a hollow aluminium axle, utilising reliable but also easily replaceable sealed cartridge bearings.
24 spokes are used in the rear wheel for a strength and stiffness bias where the applied loads are much higher than a front wheel. Unique to the Ward wheel range, this wheel model features the thinnest aero bladed spokes on both the drive side and non-drive side for a simultaneous aerodynamic improvement and weight saving. After extensive testing, it has been proven that this provides more than enough stength and lateral stiffness for this rear wheel model to prevent unwanted flex.
Ward 120 wheels are supplied with High Pressure Tubeless rim tape. It is light weight, yet super strong and durable. We have tested it with a clincher tyre to 200 psi (on a Ward 60a rim) with one single ply without any issues. It is thinner than traditional rim tapes, which makes mounting tyres easier.
Ward 120 wheels are hand built here in the UK, so if the standard wheel specification is not quite to your liking, please get in touch and we can discuss other options. Perhaps you would like different spokes, spoke count, lacing, hubs, nipples, or even a completely different custom build? These can all be achieved with a longer lead time. Price may vary.
Available in both rim brake & disc brake variants. However the disc brake variant may have an extended lead time, so please leave a message if you need the disc brake version quickly.
We offer a 3 year warranty for spoke replacement and retrues. This warranty does not cover postage costs or improper use. In the event of hub or rim failure this is covered by the manufacturer’s policy.
Our carbon aero rims have a manufacturer supplied quality assurance warranty period of 1 year under normal riding. If there is any damage not caused by human factors, rims can be replaced.
Pictures display White and "Team Orange" decals, "Stealth" decal colours also available (pictured on Ward 59+ listing). Wheels come without cassette/sprocket.
*Specification subject to change
Ward 120
- 120 mm depth
- 18.5 mm internal width
- Full carbon fibre rim construction
- Tubed clincher only (not tubeless compatible)
- Easy tyre installation and removal
- 120 psi maximum inflation pressure
- 24 spokes for rear wheel
- Utilises the thinnest aero spokes
- Fully sealed radial cartridge bearings
- 1130 g (rear Shimano/SRAM road)